Are you in a long-distance relationship and panicking? Stop! You don’t need to worry. You can have a normal relationship and forget about the distance. If you love the person, you will make it work. It doesn’t matter if you are a couple over 40 or in your first relationship; long-distance doesn’t need to be an issue. Using this guide, you can learn how to be in a happy and fulfilling long-distance relationship.
Don’t let the distance get the better of you
The distance in a relationship doesn’t need to be an issue. You can still spend time together. You can video call or watch TV series together. Knowing how to watch netflix together will allow you to stay connected with your partner when you can’t spend the night with them. Just because you live far away doesn’t mean you must come in between the time you spend together. Hence, you can watch a new series together simultaneously on Netflix and spend time together like you aren’t apart.
Build trust with one another
Building trust and maintaining open, honest communication is really important when you’re in a long-distance relationship. Talking about your own personal thoughts and feelings every day will really bring you closer to each other. Regularly check in with each other and use a variety of communication channels to stay in touch with them, for example, video calls, phone calls, texts, and emails, and use them to bridge the distance that separates you.
Set clear expectations at the beginning
Take the time to define your expectations and goals from the very start of your relationship. It is important to understand and respect one another’s boundaries in order to avoid early misunderstandings or even disappointments. Be open with your significant other about the topics of how frequently you would like to communicate with one another, the level of commitment you expect from the other person, where you are taking this dating or relationship journey, and even how you will overcome challenges together. Let yourself and the other person discuss their needs and wants. Listening to what the other person has to say or what they desire in the relationship is truly a huge stepping stone in continuing a truly strong and well-behaved relationship.
Be emotionally connected
Keeping an emotional connection with your significant other can be sustained even in a physically long-distance relationship. Sharing daily updates, having long conversations, and reminding each other of your love are keys. You should often send “just thinking of you” gifts, letters, or surprises that the other person will love to show how much you miss them and love them.
Plan out visits and quality time
Plan out visits together to see each other in person and make memories. Planned outings, adventures, and vacations keep the relationship fun and allow you to experience new things together. Plan virtual dates, watch movies together, and even cook the same dinner from a distance.
Cultivate individual growth
Instead of sulking around and feeling depressed about being in a long-distance relationship, take advantage of the free time you have without your partner and channel your energy elsewhere. Do something new that you never thought about doing. This is now your chance to expand and branch out. Make time for yourself to build your character and projects. When your significant other comes back into town, you’ll have all kinds of crazy stories to tell him or her, keeping you a person of high interest. Enjoy your own personal time to work on your fitness goals, personal career, and some gardening if you’re into that. It will make the time you spend with your significant other worth it.
Be happy and encouraging
Keep a positive perspective and admire each other through the hardships that long distance is sure to bring. Listen to and understand your partner’s feelings and emotions throughout the weeks. Be sympathetic, empathetic, and compassionate towards them, and during times when things get difficult, offer encouragement and validation, and reassure your partner that everything is going to be alright. Remember to celebrate your partner’s accomplishments, even if they are small.
Be prepared to face challenges
A long-distance relationship can be tough, and it typically always requires strong patience, resilience, and adaptability. There will be plenty of obstacles that will come your way while you’re in a long-distance relationship, which will probably include the time zone difference, communication barriers, and even periods of deep loneliness. You and your partner should be willing enough to make things work and, ultimately, figure out what’s truly important. Stay committed to overcoming all the relationship challenges together, and always stay positive!